SEA Libraries of the Future Summit 2026
Join us in Bali as we explore how collaboration accelerates institutional research performance, drives innovation, and strengthens impact across the entire academic ecosystem.
SEA Libraries of the Future Summit 2026
Day & Date: Thursday, 11 June 2026
Venue: Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa, Indonesia
Time: 9:00 AM – 16:30 PM (Registration starts at 8:00 AM)
Register now
*Please note that any costs related to travel and accommodations in Bali will be covered by the event attendees.
Gotong Royong: Aligning Library Strategy with Institutional Goals
Libraries no longer operate in silos. Today, they act as strategic connectors within their institutions—working closely with Research Offices, Faculties, Deans, Graduate Schools, Student Affairs, and international partners to advance the university’s academic and research mission.
This year’s theme, Gotong Royong: Aligning Library Strategy with Institutional Goals, underscores how collaboration accelerates research performance, drives innovation, and amplifies impact across the academic ecosystem.
The Summit will explore:
How libraries collaborate with university stakeholders to enhance research visibility and impact
How librarians partner with faculty to support curriculum development, research capabilities, and student success
How cross-departmental collaboration strengthens institutional research strategies
How shared goals—and shared effort—scale
outcomes within institutions and across Southeast Asia
About the Summit
The SEA Libraries of the Future Summit is Elsevier’s flagship annual gathering for library leaders and information sciences experts across Southeast Asia.
Since 2023, the Summit has welcomed 350+ participants from more than 10 countries, establishing itself as the region’s most trusted platform for exploring the future of libraries, AI, research intelligence, and digital transformation.
This year, the Summit is proudly co-hosted and organized with FPPTI — Forum Perpustakaan Perguruan Tinggi Indonesia (Indonesian Academic Libraries Forum) and Udayana University, strengthening collaboration with Indonesian higher education institutions.
Why Attend?
A High-Level Forum for Library and Higher Education Leaders
Since 2023, 60–70% of attendees have been senior decision-makers—including Chief Librarians, Directors, Acquisitions Librarians, and national association leaders—alongside practitioners in digital services, collections, and research support.
The Summit also draws University Vice-Chancellors, Deputy Vice-Chancellors, and senior government and ministerial representatives, creating a powerful setting for strategic exchange and regional networking.
Program at a Glance
10 June – Event Day
Time | Agenda |
8:00 – 9:00 | Registration |
9:00 – 9:15 | Cultural Performance Opening: Indonesia National Anthem Prayer |
9:15 – 9:25 | Welcome Remarks Video montage |
9:25 – 9:45 | Gotong Royong—Strengthening Academic Libraries Through Collaboration |
9:45 – 10:05 | Partner address |
10:05 – 10:25 | Guest of Honour Address |
10:25 – 11:00 | Morning Networking Break |
11:00 – 11:30 | Keynote: Session to be announced |
11:30 - 11:35 | Q&A |
11:35 - 12:05 | Keynote: Session to be announced |
12:05 - 12:10 | Q&A |
12:10 – 13:00 | Panel Discussion: AI Readiness in Higher Education Abstract: This panel explores how libraries, faculties, and research offices collaborate to shape effective AI strategies. Speakers will share early lessons, practical coordination models, and approaches for preparing institutions for an AI-enabled future. |
13:00 – 14:00 | Networking Lunch |
14:00 – 14:30 | Gotong Royong in Action – Session 1 Session to be confirmed |
14:30 – 14:35 | Q&A |
14:35 – 15:05 | Gotong Royong in Action – Session 2 Session to be confirmed. |
15:05– 15:10 | Q&A |
15:10 – 15:40 | Afternoon Networking break |
15:40 – 15:45 | Gotong Royong in Action – Session 3 Session to be confirmed |
15:45 - 16:05 | Q&A |
16:05 -16:30 | Closing Remarks & Lucky Draw |
11 June – Optional half-day library visit
Udayana University, Bali
Join an optional half-day visit to Udayana University, Bali, the day after the Summit for an additional peer learning and on-site exchange.
Shared roundtrip transport between the event venue hotel and the university will be provided for attendees who join the activity.
Previous events
Explore resources from the 2023, 2024, 2025 SEA Libraries of the Future Summits.
2023 SEA libraries of the future summit